The way to a person’s heart if through their ______. (In case you didn’t get it the answer is stomach.)

Food is often associated with love. Not the, “I love that meal” expression of the word but the heartfelt communication of meals cooked with intentionality bring with them the sentiment of love. When you go home for a visit, mom fixes your favorite meal. When company is in town, you share your best dish with them. When someone isn’t feeling well or is in need of comfort, the first action item is often dropping off a home cooked meal. In each of these instances, food is a tangible expression of love.

Gathering around the table to break bread is a holy act. In today’s fast-paced economy, sitting down to share a meal and lingering over courses breaks us out of our rut of eating on the run. On holidays and special occasions we slow down and enjoy a meal together.

Food offers a purpose to gather.Outside the Bowl’s hot nutritious meals bring with them the opportunity to sit down, engage in conversations, and experience community. Some of our favorite images are pictures of children laughing over OTB meals.

Outside the Bowl knows the value of a home cooked meal. The price tag is so much greater than the nickels and dimes it costs to cook and distribute the food. As the meal prep wraps up, Outside the Bowl’s staff gather to pray over the containers of food that are about to be delivered to the hungry throughout Tijuana, Mexicali, Puerto Vallarta, Port-au-Prince, or George.

And as servings are handed out, our prayer is that recipients start to understand that someone cares. Bowl by bowl Outside the Bowl’s ministry partners are serving dishes of love. For children or elderly who might not otherwise receive a hot meal, each bowl is an expression of warmth and comfort.

As we head into Mother’s Day weekend, we can’t think of a better way to celebrate mom then by allowing children to experience love through food. Make a donation in honor of your mom today!